After so much speculation and anticipation, it as been confirmed by the Mouse that the upcoming Avatar themed expansion at Disney California Adventure will be replacing “a portion of the current Hollywood Backlot area.”
Here’s details on the location for the new Avatar expansion at Disney California Adventure.
Perhaps most interesting is that since the very first announcement, Disney has been very cautious and specific to not refer to the Avatar-themed expansion as a new land, per se. Instead, Disney references the massive-scale project as an “experience” or at best a “destination.” Speculation abounds as to whether that means this will be something separate from the theme park experience. Whether available only for separate cost, or something else, it’s interesting to see Disney’s careful phrasing. Of course, it could just be a new land.
Non-committal into specifics, Disney has officially noted that the project is still in the early stages of development and additional details will be shared later — including construction timeframes. What we DO know is that other than Disney confirming that the land will takeover a portion of the current Hollywood Backlot area (including permanent closure of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! in early 2026) is that the expansion will be themed to the AVATAR franchise including the recent and upcoming sequels WAY OF WATER and FIRE & ASH. Disney is always very careful with their language so it’s important to note that Hollywood Backlot is the northern portion of the broader Hollywood Land which could serve promising news for fans of Award Wieners, the Disney Animation building, and the (mostly defunct) Hyperion Theater spaces.
Additional concept art and concept models were also on display last year at the D23 2024 Ultimate Disney Fan Event showcasing visuals as well as a boat ride attraction concept.
See it for Yourself
The Avatar-themed expansion at Disney California Adventure does not yet have an official opening date.
MORE INFO: See more MouseInfo coverage for the new Avatar-themed expansion at Disney California Adventure
